Swan River Return Cruise Between Perth and Fremantle
Overview
Our Swan River return cruise is a relaxed 2.5-hour trip between Perth and Fremantle with the captain's live commentary. You sail past the Perth skyline, Kings Park, leafy riverside suburbs and into Fremantle's harbour, then return the same way. Choose a departure from Perth in the late morning or afternoon, or from Fremantle at midday. It is an easy way to see two cities from the water and suits couples, families, older travellers and anyone who prefers a gentle day on the river.
Highlights
- A return cruise between Perth and Fremantle in about 2.5 hours
- Live commentary from the captain on the river, its history and its landmarks
- Views of the Perth skyline, Kings Park and riverside suburbs from the water
- Choose a departure from Perth at 11:15 AM or 2:15 PM, or from Fremantle at 12:45 PM
- A seated, easy trip with no walking needed
- A good way to link a visit to Perth and Fremantle in one day
- Child places available
Full Description
The Swan River and Perth's skyline
The Swan River is the heart of Perth. It was named by Dutch explorer Willem de Vlamingh in 1697 after the black swans he saw, and the river widens into broad bays as it runs toward the sea. Leaving the jetty in the city, the cruise passes the modern towers of the business district and Elizabeth Quay, and the green slopes of Kings Park rise above the water.
A Swan River cruise from Perth is the best answer to the question of how to see the city from a different angle. The captain points out landmarks and tells stories of the river's history, and you can move between seating areas to take photos.
Kings Park and the riverside suburbs
Kings Park is one of the largest inner-city parks in the world and sits on a hill above the river, so it is visible for much of the trip. Beyond it the river passes elegant riverside suburbs with private jetties and waterfront homes, including Peppermint Grove, Claremont and Mosman Bay, and wide stretches where dolphins are sometimes seen.
Sightings of dolphins or waterbirds are never guaranteed, but the calm water and open views make the trip pleasant in any season. Bring a hat and sunscreen for the open seating and a light jacket for the breeze on the water.
Fremantle Harbour and the port city
The river reaches the sea at Fremantle, the historic port city on the coast. As the cruise approaches you see the working harbour, ships, and the heritage waterfront, with its old warehouses and limestone buildings. Fremantle is known for its markets, its old prison, its cafes and its lively harbour precinct.
The cruise is a return service, so the time at Fremantle is limited and shown on your booking voucher. If you would like time on land, choose the Fremantle departure and explore before you sail, or plan a separate visit to Fremantle another day.
Choosing your departure
There are three departures. The cruise from Perth leaves at 11:15 AM or at 2:15 PM, and the cruise from Fremantle leaves at 12:45 PM. All are about 2.5 hours and have the same commentary. Choose the time that fits your day, and check in at the jetty shown in your booking voucher.
Hotel pickup and food and drinks on board are not included, so eat before you go or bring your own snacks. The best time to take a Swan River cruise is on a clear day with light wind, and the trip runs year-round.
Itinerary
- Meet at the departure jettyCheck in at the jetty in Perth or Fremantle, depending on your option.
- Sail along the riverPass the Perth skyline, Kings Park and the riverside suburbs with the captain's commentary.
- Fremantle HarbourReach the historic port and its waterfront, with time at the far end shown on your voucher.
- Return cruiseSail back along the river to the starting jetty.
What's included
- Return cruise between Perth and Fremantle
- Captain's live commentary
Not included
- Hotel pickup and drop-off
- Food and drinks on board
- Tips
Not suitable for
- Travellers who cannot manage boarding a boat
- Anyone who wants a full-day tour or an active experience
Meeting point
Meet at the departure jetty in Perth for the 11:15 AM and 2:15 PM cruises, or at the jetty in Fremantle for the 12:45 PM cruise, using the details in your booking voucher. Hotel pickup is not included, so plan your way to the jetty and arrive about 15 minutes early.
Important information
- Arrive about 15 minutes before departure with your booking voucher.
- Bring a hat, sunscreen and sunglasses, and a light jacket for the breeze.
- Food and drinks on board are not included; bring water if you like.
- Hotel pickup and drop-off are not included.
- Tips are not included.
- Adults are aged 13 and over and children aged 4 to 12 have their own rate; infants 3 and younger have their own place.
- Timetables and route can change for weather and river conditions.
- Choose a departure from the option list in the booking panel.
Good to know
Frequently Asked Questions
Straight answers to what travellers ask us most, before they book.
How much does the Swan River cruise ticket cost?
The price depends on adult and child rates and is shown in the booking panel on this page for the option and date you choose.
Is hotel pickup included?
No. You meet at the departure jetty in Perth or Fremantle, and the details are in your booking voucher.
How long is the Swan River cruise?
The return cruise takes about 2.5 hours.
What is the difference between the options?
The cruise and commentary are the same. The options differ in the departure point and time: Perth at 11:15 AM, Fremantle at 12:45 PM, or Perth at 2:15 PM.
Are food and drinks included?
No. Food and drinks on board are not included, so bring water or eat before you go.
Is the cruise suitable for children?
Yes. Children aged 4 to 12 have their own rate, and infants aged 3 and younger can travel too. The seated format suits families.
What will I see?
The Perth skyline, Elizabeth Quay, Kings Park, riverside suburbs and Fremantle Harbour, with the captain's live commentary.
What should I wear and bring?
Wear light clothes and flat shoes, and bring a hat, sunscreen, sunglasses and a light jacket.
Can I book for today or tomorrow?
Choose your date in the booking panel to see availability. Weekend departures are popular, so book early.
Is the Swan River cruise worth doing?
Yes, if you want a gentle way to see Perth and Fremantle from the water with commentary and no walking.
